Just Like You! Promotes Drug-Free Lifestyle

About: Pictured above are Matt Friend and his son, Sam, as they talk about the dangers of marijuana, and the importance of being drug-free during a break from reviewing homework.

Children young and old are always watching adults and trying to imitate them.

The Garrett County Health Department’s Just Like You! Program reminds parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, older siblings, and coaches to examine their own life and make sure they are being a positive role model.

“The old saying of ‘do as I say not as I do’ doesn’t always work with kids,” said Linda Costello, Prevention Specialist at the Garrett County Health Department. “Sometimes they remember what you do and how you act more than the words you say. Show your kids that you can deal with life’s ups and downs without depending on drugs or alcohol to get you through.”

“Since the brain isn’t fully developed until about age 25, using marijuana interferes with this development,” Costello added. “That’s why drug-free is the best way to be, and they need to see that you live a healthy lifestyle. Talk to them about the dangers of drugs, and show them what drug-free really means.”

Visit copycatfun.com for more information, and for additional resources about the importance of adults being positive role models for children are also available (Developmental Asset #14-ADULT ROLE MODELS). For more information about the Just Like You! Program, call 301-334-7730 or 301-895-3111.